ONEONTA – Gerald "Jerry" T. Russell Sr., 74, passed away on June 25, 2016 in Oneonta.

Born on December 4, 1941 to Vaughan and Bertha Russell; Jerry was a lifelong resident of Oneonta spending his entire life on Harrison Avenue.

At the age of eight Jerry started playing the piano and organ and took lessons at the New York City Radio Music Hall. He was an accomplished organist at the age of fifteen playing for numerous events such as the Lions Club Sportsmen's Show, Otsego County Republican Dinners, substituting as organist at the Oneonta First United Methodist Church and the Morris Manor Chapel as well as organist for commencements at the Oneonta High School and Miss Oneonta Pageants. Most importantly Jerry was the accompanist for the Chimes later known as The Tones. The Tones became a well-known singing group making records in New York City and being the lead entertainment at many events in the area.

For many years Jerry was a member of the Rex Pryor Orchestra, playing the piano for numerous engagements in the area and as far away as Saratoga. This was a highlight of his music career because of the camaraderie and the big band music which he loved. Jerry had a fantastic ability to play a song without any music and was able to play a melody after hearing it once. His music scores were only a list of the song names.

Jerry was also an antique car enthusiast at one time owning seven antique cars. He had an incredible knowledge of the working of the 31 Model A. Many people will remember him driving his 1931 Model A Coupe which he drove all times of year around town. He was a charter member of the Rolling Antiquer's Old Car Club and spent many days in preparation for the annual show.

Jerry was the sole proprietor of the Russell Painting Company which he operated for 48 years from 1964 to 2012. He would go above and beyond what was asked of him in his work thus helping people with many odd jobs.

He was predeceased by his brother, John V. Russell and his parents.

Jerry is survived by his wife of 51 years, Cecilia Judd Russell; sons, G. Thomas Russell Jr. (Melissa) and Rick S. Russell (Constanza). He also loved his grandchildren, Emma and Jacob; Briana, Sara and Lucas.

A Service of Remembrance will be held 2 p.m., Friday, July 8th at the First United Methodist Church, 66 Chestnut St., Oneonta, with the Rev. Teressa Sivers, officiating. He will be laid to rest in the church columbarium.

Donations may be made to the First United Methodist Church for the Building Fund.

Online expressions of sympathy may be made at, www.lhpfuneralhome.com

Arrangements are being made by the Lewis, Hurley & Pietrobono Funeral Home, 51 Dietz St., Oneonta.